This paper aims to contribute to the discussion on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)
through five parts. The first is through the identification of anticipated outputs from each of the
IPEF Pillars that the Philippines can expect from participating in the agreement. Second, the paper
then outlines the opportunities presented by the agreement by its alignment to key Philippine
development plans and trade and industry development strategies. Third, there are issues that
need to be addressed to avoid being obstructions to the IPEF negotiations and even implementation
of IPEF provisions such as muddling talks related to other discussions with the United States
(US), shifts the Philippines’ focus away from traditional bilateral Free-Trade Agreements (FTAs).
Here, data sharing challenges, and low levels of stakeholder awareness of the agreement are also
discussed. Fourth, the paper proceeds to discuss how the IPEF may affect relations with Europe.
To conclude, strategies to reap the benefits of the IPEF are presented.